Little Bit Recipes

  • Home
  • Recipes
  • About
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Resources
  • Recipes
  • Subscribe
  • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Resources
    • Recipes
    • Subscribe
    • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Home / Roundups

    30 air fryer recipes that replace the oven entirely

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Mar 31, 2026 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    I love finding recipes that save time and keep the kitchen cool, which is why I turned to the air fryer for so many meals. These recipes cook quickly, stay crisp where they should, and cut down on cleanup without ever needing the oven. They make it easy to put dinner on the table or whip up a snack without extra fuss.

    A bowl of mashed pumpkin sits on a white surface, surrounded by a small pumpkin, pinecones, red berries, and part of a wooden board.Pin

    Want to save this post?

    Enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox. Plus, I'll send you the latest recipes and tips every week!

    Loading

    Frozen Pot Pie

    Pot pie on plate with fork in middle.Pin
    Frozen Pot Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This frozen pot pie cooks up evenly with a crisp top and hot filling in much less time than a traditional oven. It works well for busy evenings when a warm, filling meal is needed without extra prep. The air fryer handles everything in one compact space, making it a practical swap for larger appliances. It's a reliable option when you want a hands-off dinner that still feels complete.
    Get the Recipe: Frozen Pot Pie

    Maryland Crab Cakes

    Close-up of a crab cake on a plate, topped with creamy sauce, partially cut to show the inside. Lemon wedges and parsley garnishes are nearby.Pin
    Maryland Crab Cakes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These crab cakes turn golden on the outside while staying soft inside, all without needing a stovetop or oven. They come together quickly, making them a smart pick for a light meal or appetizer. Using the air fryer keeps cleanup simple and avoids heating up the whole kitchen. It's a convenient way to prepare seafood with consistent results every time.
    Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cakes

    Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer

    Grilled salmon fillet on a white plate garnished with lemon slices and dill, next to a red checkered cloth and a fork.Pin
    Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Cooking frozen salmon this way saves time since there's no need to thaw in advance. The fish cooks evenly and stays moist, making it a dependable option for quick dinners. The air fryer replaces the oven by delivering steady heat in a shorter time frame. It's a simple approach for adding a protein-rich dish to your routine without extra steps.
    Get the Recipe: Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer

    Air Fried Ham with Keto Glaze

    Sliced roasted ham garnished with sprigs of rosemary on a white plate.Pin
    Air Fried Ham with Keto Glaze. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This ham develops a caramelized outer layer while staying tender inside, all in a shorter cooking window. It's a solid choice for small gatherings or family meals without needing a full oven setup. The air fryer keeps things efficient and reduces overall cooking time. It works well when you want a centerpiece dish without extra effort.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fried Ham with Keto Glaze

    Air Fryer Boneless Turkey Breast Roast

    A sliced roasted pork loin garnished with rosemary, orange slices, and red grapes on a white plate, with extra grapes in a bowl nearby.Pin
    Air Fryer Boneless Turkey Breast Roast. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This turkey breast cooks evenly with a lightly crisp exterior and juicy center. It's a practical option for smaller portions when a full oven roast isn't necessary. The air fryer keeps the process simple and more manageable for everyday cooking. It fits well into weeknight meals or smaller holiday spreads.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Boneless Turkey Breast Roast

    Air Fryer Tuna Melt

    A grilled cheese tuna sandwich is cut in half on a plate.Pin
    Air Fryer Tuna Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This tuna melt comes out with a crisp bread layer and warm filling in just minutes. It's a quick lunch or light dinner that doesn't require turning on the oven. The air fryer helps achieve a balanced texture without much effort. It's a dependable choice when you need something fast and filling.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt

    Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

    Air-fried brussels sprouts with grated parmesan cheese on a white plate.Pin
    Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These Brussels sprouts turn crisp on the outside while staying tender inside. They cook faster than oven roasting and require minimal attention. The air fryer makes it easy to prepare a vegetable side without extra steps. It's a simple addition to any meal that fits into a busy schedule.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

    Salmon Bowl

    A bowl of white rice topped with glazed salmon, sliced cucumbers, corn, tomato wedges, and a drizzle of orange sauce, with chopsticks picking up a piece of salmon.Pin
    Salmon Bowl. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This salmon bowl comes together quickly with evenly cooked fish and fresh toppings. It works well for lunch or dinner when you want something balanced and easy to assemble. Using the air fryer keeps the cooking process efficient and avoids long wait times. It's a flexible meal that fits into everyday routines without much planning.
    Get the Recipe: Salmon Bowl

    Air Fryer Garlic Bread

    Close-up of a garlic bread slice topped with melted cheese and herbs held over a plate.Pin
    Air Fryer Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This garlic bread turns crisp and golden without needing to preheat a full oven. It's ready in minutes, making it a quick side for pasta or soups. The air fryer handles small batches easily and keeps things simple. It's a reliable way to add a warm side without extra hassle.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Bread

    Chicken Nuggets

    Hand dipping a chicken nugget into a bowl of ketchup, with a gray cloth background.Pin
    Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These chicken nuggets cook up crisp on the outside and tender inside in a short time. They're a great option for quick meals or snacks, especially for families. The air fryer makes them easy to prepare without deep frying or oven baking. It's a straightforward way to serve a familiar favorite with less cleanup.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

    Air Fryer Mixed Berry Crumble

    A white plate with berry cobbler sits on a white surface next to a red checkered cloth; a bowl of mixed berries is in the background.Pin
    Air Fryer Mixed Berry Crumble. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This berry crumble cooks evenly with a warm fruit base and lightly crisp topping. It's a convenient dessert that doesn't require a full oven setup. The air fryer keeps portions manageable and speeds up the process. It's a simple way to prepare a sweet dish without extra steps.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mixed Berry Crumble

    Apple Salad

    A bowl of salad with mixed greens, air-fried apples, red onions, nuts, and crumbled cheese.Pin
    Apple Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This apple salad brings together fresh ingredients for a quick and refreshing side. It pairs well with warm dishes prepared in the air fryer, balancing the meal. Preparation is fast and doesn't require cooking time. It's a practical option for rounding out a simple meal.
    Get the Recipe: Apple Salad

    How to Make Fresh Pumpkin Puree

    A bowl of mashed pumpkin sits on a white surface, surrounded by a small pumpkin, pinecones, red berries, and part of a wooden board.Pin
    How to Make Fresh Pumpkin Puree. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This pumpkin puree comes together smoothly and works well for both sweet and savory dishes. It's a useful base ingredient that can be prepared in batches. The air fryer helps cook the pumpkin efficiently without using the oven. It's a handy addition to keep on hand for different recipes.
    Get the Recipe: How to Make Fresh Pumpkin Puree

    Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

    Close-up of an air-fried barbecued rib with charred edges over a white plate.Pin
    Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These ribs cook to a tender texture with a lightly crisp exterior in less time than traditional methods. They're a good choice for a main dish without needing long oven hours. The air fryer keeps the cooking process controlled and efficient. It's a practical way to enjoy ribs without a grill or smoker.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

    Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

    A hand holding a bacon-wrapped shrimp dipped in a small bowl of sauce, with a green leaf garnish on the side.Pin
    Bacon Wrapped Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These shrimp cook quickly with crisp bacon and juicy centers. They work well as an appetizer or light main dish. The air fryer handles both components evenly without needing multiple pans. It's a convenient option for quick entertaining or simple meals.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

    Brownie Bites

    Close-up of a hand holding a half-eaten chocolate brownie with gooey chocolate chunks, with another partial brownie blurred in the background.Pin
    Brownie Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These brownie bites come out soft inside with a slightly crisp edge. They cook faster than a full tray in the oven, making them great for small batches. The air fryer simplifies dessert prep and reduces waiting time. It's an easy option when you want something sweet without extra effort.
    Get the Recipe: Brownie Bites

    Air Fryer Home Fries

    Air-fried potato cubes with diced green bell peppers on plate.Pin
    Air Fryer Home Fries. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These home fries turn golden and crisp with a soft interior. They cook faster than oven-roasted potatoes and require less monitoring. The air fryer makes them a practical side for breakfast or dinner. It's a simple way to add a hearty component to any meal.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Home Fries

    Maple Glazed Carrots

    Sliced glazed carrots garnished with herbs on a fork, with more on a plate in the background.Pin
    Maple Glazed Carrots. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These carrots cook until tender with a lightly caramelized coating. They're a quick side dish that pairs well with many main meals. The air fryer keeps cooking time short and cleanup easy. It's a straightforward way to prepare vegetables without using the oven.
    Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots

    Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

    A spoon lifting a smashed potato garnished with rosemary, with a festive table setting in the background.Pin
    Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These potatoes have a crisp outer layer and soft center, making them a crowd-friendly side. They cook more quickly than traditional oven methods. The air fryer helps achieve even texture without much effort. It's a practical choice for both everyday meals and gatherings.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

    Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

    Three pieces of bacon-wrapped salmon bites garnished with parsley on a white plate.Pin
    Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These bites combine crisp bacon with tender salmon in a compact portion. They cook quickly and work well as appetizers or small plates. The air fryer keeps everything evenly cooked without extra steps. It's a convenient option for serving something different with minimal prep.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

    Air Fryer French Toast

    Air fryer french toast slices with syrup and blueberries on plate.Pin
    Air Fryer French Toast. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This French toast cooks evenly with a lightly crisp surface and soft inside. It's ready quickly, making it ideal for busy mornings. The air fryer replaces the need for stovetop batches or oven baking. It's a simple way to prepare breakfast with less mess.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer French Toast

    Air Fryer Spatchcock Chicken

    Roasted, herb-seasoned chicken halves on a platter with fresh parsley, orange slices, and red grapes, set on a white surface with a red checkered cloth nearby.Pin
    Air Fryer Spatchcock Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This chicken cooks evenly with a crisp skin and juicy meat throughout. It's faster than a full oven roast and easier to manage. The air fryer helps distribute heat efficiently for consistent results. It's a practical main dish for family meals without long cooking times.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spatchcock Chicken

    Ground Turkey Meatballs

    Three glazed meatballs are arranged in a row on a white plate, each garnished with a stick and a small sprig of parsley. A red checkered cloth and some fresh parsley are in the background.Pin
    Ground Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These meatballs cook evenly and hold their shape without needing constant attention. They're a flexible option for meals like pasta or wraps. The air fryer simplifies cooking and reduces cleanup. It's a reliable way to prepare a protein component quickly.
    Get the Recipe: Ground Turkey Meatballs

    Crab Rangoon Dip

    A person dipping a piece of bread into a skillet of cheesy dip.Pin
    Crab Rangoon Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dip comes out warm and creamy with a lightly crisp top layer. It's a good option for sharing at gatherings or as a snack. The air fryer handles the heating evenly without needing the oven. It's an easy way to serve a crowd-friendly dish with minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon Dip

    S'mores Dip

    A hand holding a graham cracker dipped in s'mores dip with more crackers and dip in the background.Pin
    S’mores Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dip melts evenly with a soft center and lightly toasted top. It's quick to prepare and works well for small servings. The air fryer keeps the process simple and fast. It's a convenient dessert option without needing outdoor equipment.
    Get the Recipe: S'mores Dip

    Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple

    Bacon wrapped pineapple on a white plate.Pin
    Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish combines sweet pineapple with crisp bacon in a balanced bite. It cooks quickly and works well as an appetizer or snack. The air fryer ensures even cooking without multiple steps. It's a simple option for adding variety to your spread.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple

    Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites

    Close-up of a pastry topped with cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.Pin
    Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These bites come out crisp with a warm, soft center. They're a good option for gatherings or quick appetizers. The air fryer keeps preparation efficient and avoids long oven times. It's a practical way to serve something that feels special without extra work.
    Get the Recipe: Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites

    Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen)

    Air Fryer Chicken Wings on white plate.Pin
    Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen). Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These wings cook straight from frozen to a crisp exterior and tender inside. They save time since there's no need to thaw beforehand. The air fryer replaces oven baking with faster and more even results. It's a dependable option for quick snacks or game-day meals.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen)

    Crab Melt

    Two plates of crab melt with sliced tomatoes and melted cheese, garnished with lemon slices on a white wooden surface.Pin
    Crab Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This crab melt turns golden on top with a warm, rich filling underneath. It's a quick meal option that doesn't require an oven. The air fryer makes it easy to prepare single servings efficiently. It's a practical choice for lunch or light dinners.
    Get the Recipe: Crab Melt

    Air Fryer Honey Spiced Walnuts

    Bowl of glazed candied walnuts on a white surface.Pin
    Air Fryer Honey Spiced Walnuts. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These walnuts toast evenly with a lightly crisp coating in just minutes. They're great as a snack or topping for salads and desserts. The air fryer simplifies the process and avoids stovetop stirring. It's a quick way to prepare a versatile ingredient without much effort.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Spiced Walnuts

    FacebookXPinterestFlipboard

    More Roundups

    • A glass of purple milkshake topped with whipped cream, a red cherry, and small white candy pearls, set on a light-colored surface.
      26 Asian dishes that balance bold flavor with simplicity
    • Spoonful of Hawaiian chicken served over rice.
      20 slow cooker dinners that build deep flavor while you relax
    • A spoonful of colorful mango avocado salad is held above a white plate, with a bowl of the same vibrant salad in the background.
      30 side dishes that quietly make dinner complete
    • A bowl of seafood and sausage gumbo with a spoon, served on a white surface with a red checked napkin beside it.
      30 pork recipes that lean fully into savory flavor

    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

    Comments

    No Comments

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    A woman in a green shirt stands in a kitchen holding a bowl of strawberries.

    Hi, I'm Lisa! I'm a cookbook author who has been creating recipes for over a decade. I'd like to show you how easy it is to downsize your cooking for one or two people.

    Read more →

    Popular

    • A bowl of brown rice with Hawaiian chicken on it.
      Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
    • edible cookie dough single serving for one.
      Edible Single Serving Cookie Dough
    • Sliced Italian artisan bread with buttered slice in front.
      No Knead Italian Artisan Bread
    • A sliced meatloaf on a white plate.
      Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (CopyCat)

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    Cooking

    • Scaling Recipes
    • Mini Pie Pans
    • Mini Loaf Pans

    Recipes

    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
    • Desserts

    About

    • About
    • Contact
    • Newsletter

    LittleBitRecipes.com makes money through affiliate partner links: If you click on a link, we may earn a commission. Our writers create all reviews, recipes, and other content to inform readers, with no influence from our advertisers. LittleBitRecipes.com may earn from qualifying purchased made on Amazon.com. Learn more about our privacy policies, terms of use, and disclosures.

    Copyright © 2026. Little Bit Recipes. All Rights Reserved.